Creamy Chicken Salad
Description
Creamy Chicken Salad is a timeless recipe that’s perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, picnics, sandwiches, wraps, or a light dinner. Tender shredded chicken is combined with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice, then mixed with crunchy celery, green onions, fresh herbs, and simple seasonings. The result is a rich, flavorful salad that’s creamy without being heavy and packed with fresh texture in every bite. Whether served on toasted bread, buttery croissants, crisp lettuce leaves, crackers, or enjoyed straight from the bowl, this versatile chicken salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It comes together in just minutes using cooked chicken, making it a fantastic way to use leftovers or rotisserie chicken. Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins, this classic recipe is one you’ll return to again and again for busy weekdays, family gatherings, and healthy meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup halved red grapes
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tsp paprika
For Serving
- Croissants
- Sandwich bread
- Lettuce leaves
- Crackers
- Fresh cucumber slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cook and cool the chicken if needed, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Stir the diced celery, sliced green onions, and chopped parsley into the dressing.
Step 4: Combine
Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and gently fold everything together until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
If using grapes, cranberries, nuts, dill, or paprika, gently mix them into the salad.
Step 6: Taste
Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
Step 7: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 8: Stir Again
Give the salad a gentle stir before serving.
Step 9: Serve
Serve on toasted bread, flaky croissants, lettuce wraps, crackers, or over a bed of fresh greens.
Step 10: Garnish
Top with fresh parsley and freshly cracked black pepper before serving.
Tips, Notes & Q&A
Tips
- Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and convenient.
- Greek yogurt lightens the dressing while adding extra protein.
- Chill the salad before serving for the best flavor.
- Add diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness.
- Toasted nuts provide extra crunch and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended because the creamy dressing may separate after thawing.
Can I make it lighter?
Absolutely. Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.
Servings
Serves 6
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
Creamy Chicken Salad is a fresh, satisfying, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a rich, tangy dressing, it’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and ideal for meal prep, sandwiches, wraps, or light lunches. With simple ingredients and endless serving options, this classic chicken salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.